Derek Mayers 1935-2016

Born in Liverpool in 1935, Mayers joined the Blues straight from school, scoring seven goals in 19 appearances.

Returning from a stint of National Service, he found it difficult to cement a regular first-team role and, in 1957, his former Toffees boss Cliff Britton signed the versatile wideman for Preston North End.

At Deepdale he would play alongside Sir Tom Finney, before his career took him to Leeds United, Bury, Wrexham, Rhyl and a spell playing in Australia.

Mayers passed away in Wigan on Friday 15 April – exactly 63 years to the day of his Everton first-team debut.

His funeral will take place at 3.30pm on 26 April at St Helens Crematorium.

The thoughts of everyone at Everton Football Club are with Derek’s family and friends at this sad time.